Best Workers Compensation Attorneys in Westminster

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Westminster, Colorado?

  303-658-4360 is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Westminster.

• Where can I get a copy of police report for incidents related to my case in Westminster, Colorado?

  If you are looking to obtain a copy of a police report related to your case in Westminster, Colorado, there are two ways to do so: in-person or written request. For in-person requests, you need to visit the Westminster Public Safety Center from Monday to Thursday between 8 AM to 5 PM. If you prefer a written request, contact the Records Section and complete a search request form with details of the report, sign it, and include payment (call Records for pricing information) and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Requests are processed daily, and your letter should be addressed to the Westminster Police Department, Attn: Records Section, 9110 Yates St., Westminster, CO 80031. It is worth noting that not all police reports can be released under State Law, and victims of crimes under the Victim Rights Amendment can receive the initial police report for free. Therefore, contact the Records Division at 303-658-4380 to check the availability of the report and any other details.

• What steps should someone take after being injured on the job in Westminster?

  After experiencing a work-related injury or illness in Westminster, seek medical attention right away, preferably with someone onsite. Next, immediately file an accident report in writing, ideally within four working days of the incident. It's also essential to take photos or videos, talk to witnesses, and keep records, including bills, invoices, and reports. Keep track of important dates and people you've spoken to. Building a case can be challenging, so it's advisable to work with a skilled workers' compensation lawyer.

• What is the timeframe for approving a workers' compensation claim in Westminster?

  When you file a workers' compensation claim in Westminster, the insurance company has 20 days from the date written on the employer's first report of injury to provide a written decision. The insurer will approve the claim with an admission of liability or deny it with a notice of contest. If there are any disputes, the insurance company must provide a written explanation, and you have the right to appeal it within 45 days of the notice's date of mailing.

• What if you can't work after a work-related injury in Westminster?

  If you sustain an injury that prevents you from continuing work in Westminster, a workers' compensation attorney can help you obtain compensation for lost wages. It is possible that even if your medical expenses are approved by the insurance company, you may not receive all of the benefits that you are entitled to, such as mileage for doctor's appointments and compensation for lost wages. A workers' compensation attorney can help you obtain damages beyond lost wages.

• What are the fees for your workers’ compensation attorney in Westminster?

  In the workers' compensation sector, attorneys often work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you receive a settlement or compensation award. The fee structure for workers’ compensation cases is governed by state law and typically caps attorney fees at 20% of the settlement or award. The goal of an attorney in a workers’ compensation case is to help you obtain the maximum amount of benefits and compensation for your injury in Westminster.

• Can you file a claim against a third-party if they caused your work-related injury in Westminster?

  If a third-party caused your work-related injury in Westminster, you may have the right to file a claim against them. Workers' compensation laws in Colorado usually prevent you from suing your employer, but you can pursue legal action against a third-party whose actions caused your injury. Third-party claims may arise from situations such as a car accident, slip and fall, or premises liability. It's essential to have an experienced workers' compensation attorney on your side who can evaluate your case and help you understand your legal options.

• What does a workers’ compensation attorney do?

  Workers’ compensation attorneys help injured employees recover monetary benefits following workplace accidents and illnesses. Attorneys in this practice area provide legal advice, gather evidence, review medical records, prepare petitions, and negotiate insurance settlements. They also represent clients’ interests during court cases and administrative hearings overseen by state workers’ compensation boards.

• What are the benefits of filing a workers’ compensation claim?

  Workers’ compensation insurance gives employees access to vital cash benefits in case of workplace injuries or illnesses. Filing a claim can help injured workers pay for medical care, physical therapy, and essential living expenses while they recover from a temporary or permanent disability. Workers’ compensation also pays for funeral and burial expenses following fatal workplace injuries.

• How long does a workers’ compensation claim stay open?

  Workers’ compensation claims typically remain open as long as the individual is receiving treatment or until the injured party reaches maximum medical improvement. This milestone varies for each person, and it can take years to determine whether a disability is temporary or permanent. Additionally, there’s a fixed time limit for filing a lawsuit. The statute of limitations can be anywhere from six months to two years from the date of the injury or the date of the last payment, depending on the worker’s state of residence. A qualified attorney can explain your state’s specific rules.

• What is the average payout for a workers’ compensation claim?

  Nationally, the average workers’ compensation claimant receives $21,800. Payouts range from $2,000 on the low end to upwards of $60,000 for well-compensated workers in high-income areas. The exact amount depends on the claimant’s average weekly paycheck, the extent of the injuries, and their state of residence. Individuals who accept an insurance settlement or initial offer typically receive less than those who negotiate or have an attorney represent them before an arbitrator or workers’ compensation judge.

• How are settlements calculated in workers’ compensation cases?

  Settlements typically cover current and future medical expenses, vocational rehabilitation or retraining, and two-thirds of lost wages. The total amount may vary depending on whether the worker’s disability is temporary or permanent. Workers’ compensation also pays death benefits, including funeral expenses and two-thirds of wages for up to 25 years or a state-specified maximum.

• What is workers comp?

  Workers' compensation is an insurance program that provides medical care, rehabilitation, and other benefits for employees who are injured or fall ill while performing assigned work duties. Common reasons for filing a workers' comp claim include slip and fall injuries, machinery accidents, or muscle strains while lifting heavy items.

  All businesses must carry some form of workers' compensation insurance, with minimum guidelines imposed by the state of residence. Workers' comp is intended to safeguard both the employee and the employer by providing a social safety net. This can protect companies from civil suits and guarantee that injured employees receive the benefits they need.

• What does workers comp cover?

  Workers' compensation insurance covers benefits associated with a wide range of accidents and illnesses that may occur in a place of work. This can include:

  • Medical benefits, such as payments for treatments, hospitalizations, or surgeries
  • Compensation for lost wages while not working
  • Coverage for ongoing care, such as physical therapy
  • Continued access to benefits, including insurance provided through an employer
  • Disability benefits, if an injury results in a permanent loss of functioning in some manner
  • Death benefits and funeral expense coverage

  How and when workers' compensation coverage applies depends on the illness or injury in question and the results of a medical exam. An unsatisfactory ruling by an insurer can be appealed with help from a workers' comp attorney.

  
  

• What does a workers comp defense attorney do?

  A workers' compensation defense attorney is a legal professional who represents the employer in a workers’ comp case. Typically, the defense attorney works to minimize the employer’s liability and reduce the amount of benefits to be paid out.

• When does workers comp start paying?

  How and when workers' comp starts paying can depend on both the circumstances and the state in which an injury took place. In most areas, benefits related to medical care start paying out immediately, even before a claim is formally processed or accepted. Once a case is approved, injured workers may be entitled to other benefits, including coverage for lost wages.

• How much is workers comp insurance for self-employed people?

  Workers' compensation isn't required for self-employed individuals, but those working in dangerous industries, such as construction or manufacturing, may choose to purchase policies. In some cases, employers may request this coverage when hiring a contractor. While costs will vary based on industry and location, most freelancers can expect to pay around $25 to $50 per month.

• How do I file a workers comp claim?

  A workers' comp claim is best filed as soon as an injury occurs. In some states, there are time limits, such as one month following an incident.

  After an injury, an employee must notify their employer. The employer must then provide access to the necessary forms and offer guidance. Employees must fill out all forms and return them to the employer who then files them with the insurer. Some states have additional requirements, including assessment by a medical provider. Once the paperwork has been filed, the insurance provider issues a ruling. If the ruling is unfavorable, the employee may choose to appeal the decision with the support of an attorney.